Child and Family Teams (CFTs)
During this state of emergency related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), the CFT process serves as an essential
strategy to ensure families and providers can continue caring for children and that the county is aware of the
practical and emotional needs of caregivers and children. The CFT also will serve as a critical point of
communication, support and response for circumstances when a child, caregiver or staff become exposed to
COVID-19. CDSS recommends that CFT facilitators employ techniques provided in ACL 20-25 to help ensure ongoing
engagement with children and families. These best practices for CFTs and CANS have been compiled from
suggestions by the Regional Training Academies and the Praed Foundation. In addition, further resources and
guidance can be found within this webpage under “COVID-19 Resource” subheading.
There is an increasing body of evidence showing that services for children and families are most effective when
delivered in the context of a single, integrated team that includes the child or youth, his or her family,
natural and community supports, and professionals. In California, the Child and Family Team (CFT) process is key
to the success of the Continuum of Care Reform efforts and the well-being of children, youth, and families
served by public agencies and their partners. It is based on the belief that children, youth, and families have
the capacity to resolve their problems if given sufficient support and resources to help them do so. [Learn more]
To learn more about how the CANS and the CFT process work together, please follow the links below.